3 EASY Tips for Better Leather Working Product Photography
How to Level Up Your Product Photography for Your Leather Business
Introduction to Product Photography Tips
- The speaker shares three tips for improving product photography specifically for leather businesses, emphasizing that they are not a professional photographer but have learned through experience.
- The video will cover three main tips followed by a demonstration of setting up a product shoot and editing photos.
Tip 1: Importance of Lighting
- Lighting is highlighted as the most crucial aspect of photography; good lighting can significantly enhance photo quality before editing.
- The speaker uses a Godox light in their basement setup, which allows for adjustable levels. Natural sunlight on cloudy days is recommended as an excellent alternative.
- To diffuse harsh light, use materials like sheets or paper in front of lights to soften direct illumination on products.
Tip 2: Using Props Effectively
- Incorporating props that complement the product without overshadowing it is essential; inexpensive items can work well.
- Suggested props include challenge coins, handkerchiefs, knives, plants, books, and various personal items that add interest to the composition.
- A diverse range of props helps create visually appealing images rather than just showcasing the product alone.
Tip 3: Editing Photos
- Learning photo editing is crucial; Lightroom is recommended as an effective tool for both mobile and desktop users.
- Snapseed by Google is another free option worth trying if unfamiliar with Lightroom; however, familiarity with Lightroom may yield better results due to its extensive features.
- Proper cropping before uploading photos to Instagram prevents image degradation; specific dimensions are suggested for different post types (e.g., square posts at 1x1 size).
Final Thoughts on Photo Setup
- Ensure exported images meet Instagram's size requirements (1080px long side for square posts and 1350px for portrait).
- Avoid uploading large files over one megabyte directly to Instagram to prevent quality loss.
How to Effectively Photograph Products
Setting Up the Scene
- The process begins by selecting a platform for the product, using a distressed piece of wood as a backdrop. The speaker emphasizes experimentation with different arrangements and props.
- Multiple photos are taken from various angles, adjusting lighting and setup based on what looks best through the camera or phone.
Adjusting Lighting and Exposure
- After capturing initial images, adjustments are made to exposure, contrast, highlights, and brightness levels to enhance the photo quality.
- Preference for cooler temperature settings is noted along with increasing vibrance while reducing saturation for better clarity in images.
Utilizing Editing Tools
- Micro-adjustments are crucial; the speaker uses tools like gradient adjustments to highlight specific areas of interest in the image.
- Darkening backgrounds while keeping products bright helps them stand out more effectively.
Final Touches in Editing
- The gradient tool is also used to soften edges and create shadows where needed, contributing to a polished final look.
- A comparison feature in Lightroom allows users to see before-and-after edits clearly, showcasing the impact of editing on overall image quality.
Cropping and Exporting Images
- For Instagram posts, cropping is set at 4x5 for taller images. Export settings should ensure that long sides are set to 1350 pixels to prevent compression issues on social media platforms.